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Living in GermanyInternship in Germany

Internship in Germany

Nothing beats real job experience; that’s why employers in Germany will value you more if you have practical skills. Famous companies in Germany are excited to hire motivated graduates, and there are lots of internship opportunities you can find online.

Why Should You Choose Germany for Your Internship?

Here are some reasons you should choose Germany for your internship:

  • Internship Opportunities. There are plenty of internship opportunities in Germany, so finding one shouldn’t be difficult. Check out these sites:
  • Job Offers. After completing your internship in Germany, there’s a chance your employer will offer you a full-time job. Talented workers make Germany’s economy strong, during your internship you’ll have the chance to learn from some of the best in the field, even if you don’t stay with the company for a long time.
  • World Renowned Companies. Germany has world-wide famous companies, meaning you can get a job position in one of these companies if you show talent during your internship. For example:

What Should You Keep in Mind When Considering Internships in Germany?

It’s not a good idea to take the first internship opportunity that comes your way. There are many options out there, so take your time and wait for the perfect fit to come. Before making your decision, ask yourself:

  • How does this internship benefit your career journey? Sometimes offers don’t match your future goals.
  • What’s the perfect internship duration? Six-month internships give you more experience, and also a better sight on your resume.
  • Where’s the internship located? You want a place with good job opportunities after your internship ends.
  • What makes more sense for your budget? Some internships have financial rewards, and other ones want you to cover your own expenses.

How Do I Find an Internship in Germany?

There’s many ways to find an internship in Germany. Here are some listed:

  • Career Counseling Offices. German universities have career counseling offices with connections to employers. They will give you a list of internships and schedule interviews with employers. 
  • Local Agencies. These agencies have extensive networks, and they also update students about available internship programs.
  • Career Fairs. These fairs have people from companies who can explain internship opportunities in detail. So, keep an eye for career fairs in your area.
  • Reach Out Directly. You can reach out to companies directly. Look for companies that interest you and visit their official websites, and go to the internship section.
  • Online Platforms. Websites like LinkedIn or Indeed are important online platforms to help you find an internship.
  • Central Organizations. DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) is a central organization that also helps international students. You can visit their website for internship listings.

What Are the Requirements for an Internship Visa?

Here are the requirements for an internship visa in Germany:

  • A ZAV Consent Letter. The ZAV consent letter from the Bundesagentur für Arbeit gives you permission to work in Germany. Your hosting organization in Germany gets this for you. Some internships under EU-funded programs don’t require this document.
  • A No-Objection Letter. This letter from your local employer confirms that you’re an employee. This letter should state that they have no objections to your internship in Germany.
  • A Letter from the German Company Hosting Your Internship. This letter should list the conditions of your stay in Germany, and payment details.
  • Proof of Your Qualifications. For example diplomas, academic certificates, or academic transcripts.
  • Proof of Health Insurance (Learn more)

Take a health insurance plan for interns in Germany, such as Educare24. It covers everything you need for an internship in Germany.

Prove to the German authorities that you have enough money to live in Germany for at least one year. If your internship doesn’t cover the full costs of living in Germany, you need to open a German Blocked Account.

  • Proof of Accommodation in Germany

Important Tip: To Maximize Your Chances of Getting Your Internship Visa You Should Use a Blocked Account as Proof of Financial Resources.

A blocked account is a special type of bank account, to prove you have enough funds to live in Germany for one year.

As of 2023, as a foreigner in Germany you need a minimum of €992 per month for living expenses. So, you are required to have a total of €11,904 in your bank account before you apply for a German internship visa.

Click here to learn more about the German Blocked Account

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Study-Related Internship

These are the general requirements for a study-related internship in Germany:

  • Internship Agreement: You should have a formal internship agreement with a facility in Germany.
  • Student Status: You must currently be a student at a university outside of Germany or have graduated no more than two years before applying for visa.
  • Relevance to Your Studies: The internship should be related to your field of study.
  • Financial Support: The facility in Germany must commit in writing to cover your living and travel expenses to your home country. This support should be available for up to six months after your internship finishes.

Application Process

  • Start by checking if you meet the visa requirements listed on the German embassy website. Stack up all the necessary documents for your visa application. After, make an appointment at your local German embassy to submit the application.
  • Pay the visa application fee (€75.00) at the local embassy. The fee is non-refundable.
  • If you got your visa, it’s time to plan your trip to Germany. Get your health insurance and proof of insurance ready when you take your visa at the German embassy.
  • You can stay up to 6 months with your visa. If you want to stay longer, apply for a residence permit. Contact your local Foreigners’ Authority to find out what documents you need for the application.